In a major crackdown on trans-border smuggling, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted searches at Delhi and Agartala and busted a well-organised international gold smuggling syndicate, operating from Dubai and Bangladesh. The action led to the seizure of more than 29 kg foreign-origin gold and cash worth approximately ₹2.90 crore.

Based on specific intelligence, on 6 th  January 2026, a key syndicate member was apprehended from a domestic logistics warehouse, while taking delivery of two consignments originating from Agartala, Tripura. Examination of the consignments led to the recovery of 15 kg of foreign-origin gold, bearing international refinery markings, valued at approximately ₹20.73 crore.

Simultaneous searches conducted at multiple locations in Delhi and Agartala resulted in the recovery of an additional 14.2 kg foreign origin gold and ₹2.90 crore in cash, including Indian and Bangladeshi currency.

Thus, a total of 29.2 kg gold, valued at approx. ₹40 crore, and cash amount of ₹2.9 crore have been seized under the provisions of Customs Act. Further, four members of the syndicate have been arrested.